Evaluating Oversight Systems for Emerging Technologies: A Case Study of Genetically Engineered Organisms

This article evaluates the U.S. oversight system for genetically engineered organisms to develop hypotheses and derive lessons for oversight of other emerging technologies, such as nanotechnology. The authors' analysis suggests several lessons for oversight of emerging technologies: the importance of reducing complexity and uncertainty in oversight for minimizing financial burdens on small product developers; consolidating multi-agency jurisdictions to avoid gaps and redundancies in safety reviews; consumer benefits for advancing acceptance of GEO products; rigorous and independent pre- and post-market assessment for environmental safety; early public input and transparency for ensuring public confidence; and the positive role of public input in system development, informed consent, capacity, compliance, incentives, and data requirements and stringency in promoting health and environmental safety outcomes, as well as the equitable distribution of health impacts.